Yesterday evening, members of the Black Catholic Advisory Circle (BCAC) hosted me for a lovely dinner and an opportunity to learn more about their work to serve the Black Catholics of the Archdiocese of Seattle. They are a very dedicated group of Catholics and energetic in helping their members and others to live their faith.
I was happy to recognize many of the faces – perhaps even happier to once again see their faces! Fr. Scott Connolly graciously hosted us at St. Paul’s in Seattle, and was also in attendance.
The BCAC recently began a newsletter, and I also learned they are hoping to develop a website as well. So, I’m sure you will have an opportunity to learn more about their important ministry and ways to help more people draw closer to Christ.
Here are the primary goals of the BCAC:
- Acknowledge and affirm the gifts and contributions of Black Catholics to the Catholic Church and to the Archdiocese of Seattle.
- Provide a direct voice for Black Catholics to the Archdiocese of Seattle and its Archbishop
- Create an ongoing agenda of events and activities to educate and evangelize the Catholic community of Seattle, in parishes and schools, on the contributions and gifts of Black Catholics.
- Be a conduit to address and be in partnership with the Archdiocese to address matters affecting Black Catholics throughout the Archdiocese:
- Racial Issues
- Vocations
- Intentional effort to hire African Americans in the Archdiocese
- Closing of schools and churches, predominantly communities of color
- Education of African American students in schools and religion classes
- Promote the BCAC throughout the Archdiocese
It is always encouraging to spend time with groups such as this who are positive and looking for ways to make the Church better. Their primary paths to this are through education, empowerment and evangelization.
Thanks to all the members of the Black Catholic Advisory Circle for your faith and good work! Be on the lookout for more information and how you can become a member. Or if you wish to take some initiative, I’m sure Deacon Joseph and Barbara Connor at Immaculate Conception Church in Seattle can help you. Or you may wish to contact Deacon Carl Chilo, Director of Multicultural Ministries at the Archdiocese of Seattle.
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